Easy
About
Rifugio Brunello sits at 1,209m on the western flank of the Lanzo Valley, about 90 minutes northeast of Turin. Access is straightforward: drive to Balangero, then hike 2.5 hours via the Torrente Stura valley. The path is well-marked and gains roughly 400m elevation. Most walkers approach from the valley floor, making this a solid mid-range hut for day trips from the city or overnight stays on longer valley traverses.
The rifugio is a working mountain hut with 30 beds spread across shared dorms. The kitchen serves simple, honest food—expect pasta, risotto, local cheeses, and weekend polenta. Water comes from the spring. The hut operates year-round but is quietest November to March. Showers are available but can be cold outside summer months.
Book directly by phone or email at least two weeks ahead, especially for weekends May through September. The hut fills quickly on summer Saturdays. CAI members get no special rate here, but the manager is approachable about group bookings. Cell coverage is patchy; call before 6pm if possible. Pay cash on arrival.
The rifugio is a working mountain hut with 30 beds spread across shared dorms. The kitchen serves simple, honest food—expect pasta, risotto, local cheeses, and weekend polenta. Water comes from the spring. The hut operates year-round but is quietest November to March. Showers are available but can be cold outside summer months.
Book directly by phone or email at least two weeks ahead, especially for weekends May through September. The hut fills quickly on summer Saturdays. CAI members get no special rate here, but the manager is approachable about group bookings. Cell coverage is patchy; call before 6pm if possible. Pay cash on arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends, especially in July-August; weekday visits can often be arranged with shorter notice. Contact the hut directly or check rifugio.net for availability.
Typically open from June through September; confirm exact dates with the rifugio before planning, as staffing varies by season.
Drive to Balangero, then hike 2.5 hours via the Torrente Stura valley (well-marked path gaining roughly 400m elevation); total time from Turin is about 90 minutes plus the hike.
30 beds in shared dorms, meals served (confirm menu options when booking), and basic facilities; shower availability varies—ask when you reserve.
Yes—the 2.5-hour approach via a well-marked valley path is straightforward for fit walkers with basic experience, making it good for families with older children and day hikers from Turin.
Location
45.0088, 7.2745
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This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
4.1
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
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